The 2008 Volvo XC70 was the third in the line of a crossover that had started in the late 1990s as a variant of the V70 station wagon. This third-generation model wore styling that was a sleeker evolution of the retro-inspired look of its predecessor, which had, in turn, replaced the original’s boxy body, based on the 850 of the early 1990s.

In 2008, the XC70 was offered with a single powertrain, consisting of a 3.2-litre inline six-cylinder engine (235 hp/236 lb-ft), six-speed automatic transmission and electronically-controlled all-wheel-drive system.

This 2008 was a complete redesign that included a painted grille surround to replace the black trim used on previous XC70s. The whole thing looked newer, but seemed to better recall Volvos of the 1960s and 1970s; I’m especially fond of the way “V-O-L-V-O” is spelled out across the tailgate.

A Premium Package on the base model added a number of the upscale features standard in the T6. Other extras included a Luxury Package (active Four-C chassis, steerable dual xenon headlights, park assist, rain sensor, and either heated rear seats or integrated booster cushions), Convenience Package (privacy glass, garage door opener, speed sensitive steering, power tailgate, grocery bag holder and lockable cargo hold) and the DynAudio Package with six-CD/surround sound stereo, and satellite radio in the base model).

In 2010, the base model was split into two trims, to simplify the options list. The Premium model now included the blind spot information system, sunroof, power passenger seat, garage door opener and power liftgate.

The standard feature list didn’t change significantly, but the cargo cover was now part of the Convenience Package, which also included electric foldable rear head restraints and a sunroof wind deflector.

The 2012 model got new trim designations (again), as well as Volvo’s new “Sensus” multimedia interface, ambient lighting, City Safety, heated seats and a new (optional) adaptive cruise control system with a pedestrian detection component that could bring the car to a complete stop on its own.